Suburban Rv Furnace Reset Button Guide and Troubleshooting

The Suburban RV furnace reset button is a small but essential control for restoring furnace operation after safety trips or power interruptions. This guide explains where the reset button is located, what it does, common triggers for trips, step-by-step reset procedures, troubleshooting tips, and when to call a professional. It helps RV owners restore heat safely and maintain a reliable Suburban furnace.

Feature	Quick Fact
Common Models	Suburban NT, S/N Series, and older B-series
Reset Button Location	On furnace access panel or near blower/combustion chamber
Typical Causes For Reset	Overheat, blocked vent, low DC power, failed thermostat
Safety Tip	Always turn power off before servicing; check propane supply

How The Suburban RV Furnace Reset Button Works

The reset button on a Suburban RV furnace is a manual override tied to the furnace’s safety systems. When internal sensors detect unsafe conditions—such as overheating, ignition failure, or blocked vents—the control board or thermal switch trips and cuts power to the burner. Pressing the reset button acknowledges the fault and attempts to restore normal operation after the underlying condition has been corrected.

Important: Resetting the furnace without addressing the root cause can repeat the trip and risk component damage or safety hazards.

Where To Find The Reset Button On Suburban Furnaces

Reset button locations vary by model and year. Common places to check include under the furnace access panel, near the blower motor, adjacent to the control board, or on the face of the furnace behind the outer service panel. Some newer models use a recessed reset screw or rely on electronic diagnostics rather than a distinct red button.

Refer to the furnace owner’s manual or the data plate on the furnace for model-specific diagrams. If the manual is unavailable, visual inspection behind the access panel usually reveals a small red or black button labeled RESET or marked by the thermal cutout assembly.

When To Use The Reset Button

Use the reset button only after confirming safety and correcting obvious issues. Typical scenarios include:

• Furnace stopped mid-cycle following an overheat event.
• Furnace will not ignite but shows power—igniter or flame failure might have tripped the safety circuit.
• Intermittent operation after a power surge or battery disconnect.

Do not repeatedly press the reset button if the furnace immediately trips again. Repeated trips indicate unresolved faults like blocked vents, failed limit switches, or gas/ignition problems that require inspection.

Step-By-Step Reset Procedure

Prepare For A Safe Reset

Turn off the furnace power at the thermostat and disconnect 12V power or remove the furnace’s access to prevent accidental ignition during inspection. Shut off the propane supply at the tank if the issue might be gas-related. Allow the furnace to cool if it recently overheated.

Inspect Before Resetting

Check for restricted airflow by inspecting vents, return air filters, and hoses. Look for soot, debris, or signs of rodent damage near the combustion chamber and flue. Verify sufficient battery voltage and secure electrical connections. Confirm propane tank valve is open and regulator is functioning.

Perform The Reset

Locate and press the reset button firmly for a few seconds then release. Restore power and set the thermostat to call for heat. Observe the furnace start sequence: fan pre-blow (if equipped), ignition attempt, and steady flame. If the furnace runs normally, monitor for several cycles. If it trips again, proceed to troubleshooting.

Common Causes For Reset Trips And How To Fix Them

Overheat Due To Restricted Airflow

Blocked vents, closed return grilles, clogged filters, or crushed ducting cause the furnace to overheat. Fix: Clear all intake and exhaust vents, clean filters, and ensure duct paths are open.

Ignition Or Flame Failure

Igniter wear, faulty flame sensor, or inconsistent gas flow can cause ignition failures and trips. Fix: Inspect the igniter for cracks, check the flame sensor alignment, ensure propane valves open fully, and test tank pressure.

Low DC Voltage

Insufficient battery voltage during start-up can lead to incomplete ignition sequences and resets. Fix: Test battery voltage under load, charge or replace batteries, and examine charging system (alternator or converter).

Thermal Limit Or Safety Switch Fault

Thermal limit switches can fail mechanically or electronically. Fix: Test continuity with a multimeter and replace defective switches. Ensure replacements match OEM specifications.

Blocked Or Collapsed Exhaust/Vent

Exhaust blockages cause combustion gases to accumulate, triggering safety trips. Fix: Inspect the flue and vent cap for nests, snow, or debris. Repair any crushed vent piping and replace damaged collars.

Diagnostics: Using Lights And Codes

Many Suburban furnaces use diagnostic LEDs or blinking codes. Count the flashes or observe steady patterns to identify errors described in the service manual. Common codes may indicate flame failure, open limit switches, or control board faults. Use a voltmeter to check power rails and measure continuity across safety switches during the diagnostic routine.

Tools And Parts Needed For Troubleshooting

Essential tools include a multimeter, flashlight, screwdrivers, socket set, wire brush, and contact cleaner. Replacement parts commonly needed are igniters, flame sensors, thermal limit switches, control boards, vent components, and gaskets. Always use Suburban-approved parts or equivalent OEM-quality components.

When To Replace The Reset Button Or Control Components

If the reset button is physically damaged, sticky, or fails to re-engage, replacement is warranted. Persistent resets after repairs may indicate a faulty control board or thermal sensor. Tip: Replace control components only with matching specification units; avoid ad-hoc repairs that bypass safety features.

Safety Precautions And Best Practices

Always turn off power and propane before opening the furnace housing. Work in a well-ventilated area and use leak-detection solution when testing gas connections. Never bypass thermal switches or safety interlocks. If there is any hint of a gas leak—smell of propane—shut off the tank, ventilate, and do not attempt ignition until the leak is fixed.

Maintenance Checklist To Prevent Reset Trips

• Clean intake and exhaust vents seasonally and after long storage.
• Inspect and replace air filters or baffling annually.
• Check and secure electrical and gas connections each season.
• Operate the furnace briefly before cold weather to verify function.
• Keep the furnace compartment free from debris, flammable materials, and moisture.

When To Call A Professional

Contact a certified RV technician if the furnace repeatedly trips after basic troubleshooting, if diagnostic codes point to control board failure, or if there are signs of gas leakage, burning odors, or heavy soot. Professional service is also advised for complex repairs such as replacing the combustion chamber, venting overhaul, or major electrical work.

Replacement Parts And Cost Considerations

Replacement of a simple reset button or thermal switch is typically inexpensive—often under $50 for parts. Igniters, sensors, and small parts range from $20 to $150. Control board replacement and major repairs can cost several hundred dollars including labor. Compare OEM Suburban parts versus aftermarket options, and factor in labor and diagnostic fees.

FAQ

How Many Times Can The Reset Button Be Pressed?

There is no set number; however, pressing it repeatedly without solving the problem is unsafe. If the furnace trips immediately after reset more than once, discontinue attempts and investigate the cause.

Is The Reset Button The Same On All Suburban Models?

No. Button style and placement vary. Some modern units use electronic diagnostic systems without a dedicated reset button; older units often have a red manual reset switch.

Can A Homeowner Replace The Reset Switch?

Yes, if comfortable with basic electrical work and safety procedures. Ensure power and propane are off, match part numbers, and test operation. When in doubt, hire an RV technician.

Why Does The Furnace Trip Only When Traveling?

Vibration, shifting ductwork, or intermittent electrical connections can create issues while moving. Inspect mounting brackets, wire harnesses, and ventwork for looseness or damage.

Resources And Manuals

Official Suburban owner and service manuals provide model-specific diagrams, wiring schematics, and diagnostic code tables. OEM part numbers and exploded views facilitate correct replacement. Manufacturer websites and RV repair forums can complement official documentation with user experiences and practical tips.

Key Takeaway: The Suburban RV furnace reset button is a safety feature that should be used carefully after confirming safe operating conditions. Regular maintenance, proper diagnostics, and timely repairs keep the furnace reliable and reduce the need for resets.